This Easy Low-Carb Chicken Spinach Mushroom Bake is a warm, cozy dish that’s packed with flavor. Juicy chicken, fresh spinach, and hearty mushrooms come together for a simple meal that’s good for you!
It’s super easy to make—just throw everything into a baking dish and let the oven do the magic. I love how it fills the house with delicious smells while it cooks. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this recipe as they stay juicy and tender. You can use thighs if you prefer more flavor—or even turkey breasts in a pinch.
Spinach: Fresh spinach gives a vibrant color and nutrition. If you have frozen spinach, that works too—just make sure to thaw and drain it well before using!
Mushrooms: I like using button or cremini mushrooms for their mild flavor. If you want something different, try shiitake or portobello mushrooms for a stronger taste.
Cheese: Mozzarella brings a creamy texture, while Parmesan adds nuttiness. Consider using a dairy-free cheese if you’re avoiding dairy, but check the melting properties.
Heavy Cream or Cream Cheese: If you’re cutting calories further, low-fat cream cheese or yogurt can substitute without sacrificing too much creaminess.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken is Juicy and Cooked Perfectly?
Getting juicy chicken can be tricky, but it’s all about monitoring the cooking time and temperature. Here’s how to do it right:
- Always preheat your oven to ensure even cooking.
- Consider pounding the chicken brests to an even thickness for uniform cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—165°F (74°C) is your target.
- Letting the dish rest for a few minutes after baking allows juices to redistribute, making the chicken more tender.
Easy Low-Carb Chicken Spinach Mushroom Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 ½ cups mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream or cream cheese (softened)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 25-30 minutes to bake. So, you’re looking at just around 40 minutes in total. Perfect for a quick, healthy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your dish cooks evenly throughout.
2. Sauté the Garlic and Mushrooms:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the minced garlic, stirring it for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant. Next, toss in the sliced mushrooms and cook them until they’ve softened and browned, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the Spinach:
Once the mushrooms are cooked, stir in the chopped spinach. Cook for an additional 2 minutes or until the spinach is wilted. Then, remove everything from the heat.
4. Make the Cheese Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream (or softened cream cheese), shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well to mix everything evenly.
5. Combine Spinach and Mushrooms:
Add the sautéed spinach and mushrooms to the cheese mixture you just prepared. Mix until it’s all well combined.
6. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking. Arrange the chicken breasts in the dish with some space in between each one.
7. Assemble the Dish:
Spoon the creamy spinach and mushroom mixture generously over each chicken breast, making sure to cover them well. If you love cheese, feel free to sprinkle some extra mozzarella or Parmesan on top!
8. Bake the Dish:
Put your dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye out for the chicken to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and for the top to turn golden and bubbly.
9. Let It Rest:
After removing the dish from the oven, let it sit for 5 minutes to cool slightly. This helps the flavors settle and makes serving easier.
10. Serve and Enjoy!
Your Easy Low-Carb Chicken Spinach Mushroom Bake is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve it warm and savor the delicious natural flavors. Bon appétit!
FAQ: Easy Low-Carb Chicken Spinach Mushroom Bake
Can I Use Frozen Spinach Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain the frozen spinach well before adding it to the dish. Excess moisture can affect the texture of the bake.
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or plain Greek yogurt for a lighter option. If using yogurt, mix it in at room temperature to prevent curdling.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Chicken Spinach Mushroom Bake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add or substitute other low-carb vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or even artichokes. Just be mindful of cooking times to ensure everything cooks evenly!
